When to Visit Lapland? A Guide for Every Season
Lapland is a year-round destination, and each season has its own unique experiences. The best time to travel depends on what you want to experience. In this guide, we will go through all four seasons and their best aspects.
Autumn (September–November) — Autumn and the Northern Lights
Autumn autumn is one of the most beautiful natural phenomena in Lapland. In September, the fells and forests glow in shades of red, orange and yellow. The autumn season is short — usually about two weeks around mid-September — but worth seeing.
September is also the beginning of the northern lights season. The nights are already dark enough, but the weather is still reasonably warm (-5–10 degrees), which makes viewing the northern lights pleasant. The first snow arrives in October, and in November, the dark period begins — a period when the sun does not rise at all. The blue twilight of the dark period has a unique atmosphere.
Best activities in autumn
Good to know
Autumn is the cheapest time to travel in Lapland. Accommodation prices are at their lowest, and the destinations are quiet. However, many ski resort services are not yet open.
Winter (December–March) — Lapland's high season
Winter is Lapland's busiest and most popular travel season. Christmas and January are especially popular among international tourists thanks to Santa Claus and the winter landscapes. In February, the days start to get longer, and the sun shines after the darkness — the light reflects off the snow and the landscape is magnificent.
Many people think that March is the best month in Lapland. The days are already long and sunny, there is plenty of snow and the temperatures are more pleasant than in the middle of winter. Skiing holidays (weeks 8–10) are the most popular time to travel for Finnish families.
Best winter activities
Good to know
Winter is the most expensive time to travel. Popular accommodations and activities should be booked months in advance, especially for Christmas and ski holidays. Temperatures range between -5 and -35 degrees — January is the coldest month.
Spring (April–May) — Snow and sunshine
April is Lapland’s hidden gem. The days are long — up to 16–18 hours of light — and the sun is pleasantly warm, even though there are still meters of snow. The snow is carried by the mornings, and there is space on the trails and slopes as the season slows down.
In May, the slopes gradually close, but cross-country skiing continues in many destinations. The spring sun and warming temperatures make outdoor activities especially enjoyable.
Best activities in spring
Good to know
Spring is an excellent time for value for money. Accommodation prices drop after the main season, but snow is still reliable. The thaw season begins in late April, when the trails and routes may deteriorate.
Summer (June–August) — Nightless Night and Nature
Summer in Lapland comes as a surprise to many. In June, the nightless night begins, when the sun does not set at all. The midnight sun is a wonderful experience — you can hike, fish or play golf in the middle of the night in full daylight.
In summer, Lapland turns into a green wilderness. Hiking trails in national parks are at their best, and rivers offer excellent fishing opportunities. Canoeing, cycling and horseback riding are popular summer activities.
Best summer activities
Good to know
Summer is the cheapest time to travel to Lapland. Ski resorts are quieter, but many restaurants and activity services are open. Mosquitoes are a challenge in Lapland's summer — July is the peak season. Mosquito repellent is essential.